4 More Manufacturing Myths: Busted

Manufacturing jobs provide numerous opportunities for people of all ages. From entry-level welders, machinists, and assemblers to engineers, floor supervisors, and plant managers, there are many different career paths in manufacturing. And if you’re a high school student looking to learn a trade before going off to college, manufacturing can help you hone a set of skills that can move your career in any direction.

In our previous article, we busted some major manufacturing myths. Here are four more myths about careers in the manufacturing industry:

Manufacturing Myth #5: Manufacturing Is Dying In The United States

The manufacturing industry is one of the most vibrant sectors in the U.S. economy.  In fact, manufacturing represents about 12% of the U.S. economy and accounts for a third of all U.S. exports. Manufacturing has been an important industry reaching a three-year high in November 2021. 

Manufacturing work is not disappearing. It’s transforming. The U.S. manufacturing industry has become advanced, with highly skilled technicians and engineers producing sophisticated products that require increased use of technology to produce efficiently. 

Manufacturing Myth #6: Manufacturing Jobs Require Lots of Back-Breaking Physical Labor

Many modern manufacturing jobs involve a lot of mental labor rather than physical labor, especially those jobs which require math skills, computer skills, and assembly line work. Those positions do have physical requirements because you have to use tools and your hands much more often than if you worked as a writer or accountant. 

Still, modern manufacturing facilities take great care to keep their workers safe from injury by providing protective clothing, safety equipment, and well-lit workspaces where employees can use machinery and tools safely. While some jobs may be more physically demanding than others, an Atlas-like physique is definitely no longer a requirement for success in the field.

Manufacturing Myth #7: Manufacturing Jobs Are Dead-End Jobs

One major misconception keeping people from pursuing careers in manufacturing is the perception that there are only limited advancement opportunities available. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Most companies have professional development opportunities for their employees which provide on-the-job training to help them grow within the company so they can qualify for other positions. 

For example, an entry-level machine operator can expect to receive formal training on the latest equipment and technology at their first job, and will typically continue to receive ongoing training every few months. As that worker builds their personal skill portfolio, they expand the variety of roles available to them and increase their individual value as an employee.

Manufacturing Myth #8: Manufacturing Jobs Don’t Offer Good Benefits 

Many modern manufacturing jobs offer great benefits including health insurance, 401(k) matching programs, and employer-subsidized or partially subsidized tuition reimbursement. These are all perks that most service industry jobs can’t match. This is why more and more people are choosing manufacturing jobs than ever before.

Manufacturing Isn’t Just A Job, It’s A Career

The manufacturing industry is one of the most vibrant sectors in the U.S. economy, with many opportunities for career growth and development.

At Lutco, we offer our employees a great benefits package, including medical and dental coverage, a 401(k) matching program, and tuition reimbursement. But where we really stand out is in our commitment to growth opportunities and advancement for employees. With apprenticeship programs, on-the-job training, and industry certification programs to help our employees grow their skills and advance their careers, Lutco is committed to a culture of worker empowerment. We pride ourselves on being a family-run business that cares about employees and knows their names–you’re not just a number to us. If you’re looking for a place that can offer you great growth opportunities and advancement, Lutco is the company for you.

Whether you’re an experienced machinist looking for your next opportunity or someone who’s considering a new career in manufacturing, we want Lutco to be your next big move!